Home alarm systems come in all shapes and sizes. There are simple types that can be purchased at very low costs at hardware stores and be easily installed by homeowners using a do-it-yourself manual. There are also very expensive systems that are designed for high-end consumers and that requires a team of trained security technicians to install. These types of security alarm systems generally charge a monthly service fee.
In terms of circuit design, there are models whose component devices are connected in an open circuit. Open circuit alarm systems send off the alerting signal—either a loud siren, a flashing light, or both—when a forced entry, suspicious sound or movement causes the circuit to close, thereby altering its default state.
Closed circuit alarm systems work in the opposite manner, whereby the alarm is set off when the circuit state is changed from closed to open by signs of illegal entry.
Home alarm systems are also classified according to how their component devices are connected to each other. In this sense, they may either be wired or wireless. In a wired model, component devices such as sensors, switches and control boxes are connected using extensive but concealed cables.
Wire cables are hidden to prevent burglars from cutting them, thereby deactivating the alarm. On the other hand, component devices in wireless home alarm systems are connected to each other by self-powered radio transmitters. Compared to wired models, today’s wireless security models are clean and streamlined in terms of installation.
Lastly, they may be monitored or unmonitored. Monitored systems ordinarily provide a 24-7 monitoring services performed by a private security provider. Geared towards high-tier clientele, monitored systems charge a periodic service fee.
Homeowners should carefully assess their security needs before acquiring and implementing a monitored model in their residence. This is because monitored security alarm systems may reduce the level of privacy in the home, especially when sensors like cameras are installed in multiple locations in the premises.
Acquiring and installing home alarm systems
Security alarm systems have been demonstrated by numerous researches to significantly help in the prevention of burglaries and the apprehension of suspected burglars.
One specific study indicated that residences equipped with monitored home alarm systems reduce the likelihood of being burglarized threefold compared to houses that do not have any model installed. This plus the disturbing statistics indicating the increase of burglary in many locations pushes the demand for reliable alarm systems to go up.
However, given the different types of alarm systems currently available, homeowners should first conduct an objective assessment of their actual security needs and the amount they are willing to spend for a home security system. They should also consult house security experts to help them select the best home security option based on their actual needs and budget.
Unless homeowners have chosen to install the inexpensive, do-it-yourself varieties, they should have trained house security technicians to install the model in order to prevent potentially costly malfunctions.